SGCI's Commitment to DEIA

The DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) Subcommittee Vision Statement

We are charged with ensuring that all members feel included, heard, and valued within SGCI. Through this subcommittee, we will address barriers that prevent members – and prospective members – from being able to participate or contribute to the organization, working towards greater and more representative participation in the organization.

We believe we can build inclusivity by embracing the undoing of institutional racism within the organization.  

We acknowledge that our culture is infused with many systems of oppression.  We lead with race because when we look within other dimensions of identity – income, gender, sexuality, education, ability, age, citizenship, and geography – we find racial inequities. By focusing on race and racism, we believe our efforts will lead to positive outcomes for all oppressed communities. 

Goals: 

  • Aim to develop and implement action plans that target the removal or mitigation of specific racial barriers within our structure. 
  • Update educational programs and resources to be more inclusive of racial and cultural BIPOC elements. 
  • Ensure communications are inclusive and respectful of BIPOC populations. 
  • Establish collaborations and partnerships with others working to undo institutional racism. 
  • Establish relationships and partnerships with under-represented populations as stakeholders. 

To connect with this group, please reach out to deia@sgcinternational.org .

Reaffirmation of SGCI’s Commitment to DEIA policies and reforms

August 1, 2025

Dear SGCI Members,

As we continue to grow as a dynamic and diverse community of printmakers, educators, artists, and advocates, I write to reaffirm our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) across all aspects of SGCI’s work and mission.

At the heart of SGCI is a dedication “to the advancement of the graphic arts through an international network of artists, scholars, and advocates.” This mission compels us not only to celebrate the wide range of creative expression in print, but also to ensure that every member of our community—across backgrounds, identities, geographies, and experiences—feels seen, heard, and valued.

We recognize that building an equitable organization is an ongoing process, not a fixed destination. Over the past year and through upcoming planning, SGCI has continued to take meaningful steps to support DEIA in tangible ways. This includes:

  • Expanding representation in leadership and programming to reflect the breadth of experiences and perspectives in our field. Consider joining us in a variety of ways including the DEIA Committee!
  • Creating more accessible spaces at our conferences and events, both in-person and virtual, to welcome members with disabilities and those from historically underrepresented communities.
  • Supporting emerging voices by increasing opportunities for mentorship, scholarships, and visibility for early-career and marginalized artists.
  • Reviewing and refining policies and practices to better align with anti-racist and inclusive frameworks in our governance and communications.

These efforts stem from listening deeply to you—our membership—and from a shared belief that when our community is inclusive and just, our art and scholarship are stronger, more resonant, and more powerful.

We also acknowledge that this work is far from complete. We invite your continued feedback and collaboration as we strive to uphold our values and cultivate a space where all members can thrive. Whether you are a student or a seasoned artist, an educator or a community organizer, your presence and participation make SGCI a richer and more vibrant organization. 

Let us continue to challenge inequity, celebrate difference, and lift each other up through print and community. Join us to help shape the future and vision of the SGCI you’d like to see.

Many thanks,

Myles Calvert
President, SGCI
mcalvert@sgcinternational.org